Backed by a16z, Kleiner Perkins and Lightspeed.
About the role
In high-speed networking, cutting-edge ASICs perform only as well as the optical path they connect to. As a Hardware Product Engineer for Optics and Cables, you own the technical product lifecycle of every optics and cable component in our systems. You bridge the gap between system design and factory-level execution.
What they're looking for
- Technical Audits: Lead deep-dive technical audits of vendor facilities, assessing and improving upon their laser burn-in processes, fiber termination quality, and cleanroom discipline
- Incoming Quality Control (IQC): Define the technical gate for all optical components entering the factory. Establish golden standards to ensure incoming modules aren't just within spec but optimized for our systems
- Experience: 8+ years in Hardware Engineering or Optical Product Engineering, specifically with high-speed (400G+) transceivers and cables
- Domain Expertise: Expert-level knowledge of optical connector types (MPO, LC, EBO), fiber physics, and transceiver architectures (QSFP-DD, OSFP). Experience with high-speed switches
- Technical Authority: Proven track record of auditing vendors and establishing factory-level optical test methodologies and transitioning complex lines to overseas Contract Manufacturers
- Tooling Knowledge: Proficiency with optical scopes, bit error rate testers (BERT), and automated fiber inspection systems and product fixturing
More about this role
Job Title: NPI Engineer, Optics and Cables
Ladder: Hardware Design
Travel: Approximately 30%
Role Overview
In high-speed networking, cutting-edge ASICs perform only as well as the optical path they connect to. As a Hardware Product Engineer for Optics and Cables, you own the technical product lifecycle of every optics and cable component in our systems. You bridge the gap between system design and factory-level execution.
You will serve as the technical gatekeeper for all of the processes related to optical products as the products move from design through to high volume manufacturing. You will define the optics qualification, cleaning, inspection, and reliability standards that prevent field failures and ensure Nexthop AI stays at the leading edge of optical performance. This role is highly focused on bridging early New Product Introduction (NPI) engineering with manufacturing execution, establishing the blueprints for how our complex optical portfolios are built, tested, and scaled globally.
Key Responsibilities
1. Optical Path Integrity & Standards
- Interconnect Integrity Lead: Establish the "North Star" for the optical integrity of our systems through the manufacturing and...
Browse similar: AI jobs · AI startup jobs · Startup jobs